An MNS corporator released an audio recording of a phone conversation with the mayor which he said proves "favoritism" by the mayor.

Allotment of the fund was approved by the general body after the Opposition lost the poll conducted for approval. All corporators have to submit a letter to the mayor asking for funds based on estimates of development work in their respective wards.

However, Ambekar was unavailable for comments. MNS corporator Sandeep Deshpande who released the audio 'sting' recording said, "There is discrimination in distribution of funds. There is a nexus between the mayor and contractors. She has allotted funds in wards based on contractors carrying out work and not based on actual requirement," he said.

Meanwhile, the NCP has demanded a probe by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) into the audio 'sting'.

"SIT should probe the case as the Mayor seems to indicate that contractors influence her decision in allotment of funds," NCP MLA Jitendra Awhad said.